At a Glance

Piece together storied histories, rivalries and landscapes to experience quintessential Britain — from London to Bath, the villages of the Cotswolds to the dreaming spires of Oxford, the “bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond and the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. In each city and village, uncover the surrounding history, geography, culture, literature, houses and gardens, cathedrals and castles with local experts.

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking up to two miles; standing on city sidewalks. Stairs in historic buildings.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 10 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you'll ...

View the recently rediscovered amphitheatre and ruins of Roman London.

Explore the castles and history of mountainous Snowdonia in North Wales.

Visit Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon.

Suggested Reading List

View 15 books

A Writer's House in Wales

by Jan Morris

In this extended essay, Morris uses her much-loved 18th-century house as a point of departure for a meditation on Welsh identity.

Rob Roy

by Sir Walter Scott

Adventure in the highlands of 18th-century Scotland starring the dashing outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. Part of the "Penguin Classics" series, this book contains explanatory notes and an introduction that sets it in its historical context.

The Brontes, Wild Genius on the Moors: The Story of a Literary Family

by Juliet Barker

Hailed as the first distinctive account of the Brontes, this tome incorporates information gleaned from manuscripts and never-before-used historical documents to present an accurate and fascinating portrait of one of England’s most famous literary families.

The Highland Clans

by Alistair Moffat

This excellent compact history of the Scottish Highland clans brings to life their leaders, traditions, families and heroic deeds with color illustrations, photos, a clan map and an alphabetical family list.

The Story of England

by Christopher Hibbert

Beautifully illustrated with color pictures, chronological charts, royal genealogies and maps, this popular history of English politics, economics and culture from the Neolithic Age to the 1990s is an excellent travel companion.

A Journey Through Tudor England

by Suzannah Lipscomb

Through visits to Tudor England’s historic palaces, castles, theaters and abbeys, Suzannah Lipscomb brings to life the rich history of the Tudors.

The Age of Shakespeare

by Frank Kermode

A remarkably concise, elegant overview of the world of Shakespeare in the Modern Library Chronicles series by the eminent British critic and scholar.

101 Beautiful Small Towns Britain

by Tom Aiken

A lavishly illustrated and informative tour of Britain's beautiful and historic towns.

A Traveller's History of Oxford

by Richard Tames

A compact history of Oxford from settlement to the present, including its importance in medieval England, founding of the different colleges and brief period as Royalist capital. Tames also discusses the architecture of the colleges and includes biographies of illustrious alumni.

Notes from a Small Island

by Bill Bryson

A farewell walking tour of England by an American expatriate who has decided to return home after two decades. Like all of Bryson's books, it's full of rich conversations, humorous anecdotes and amusing interactions.

Londoners, The Days and Nights of London Now As Told by Those Who Love It, Hate It, Live It, Have Left It, and Long for It

by Craig Taylor

Drawing on the unforgettable stories of nearly 100 Londoners, Taylor provides a rich and vivid kaleidoscopic view of modern-day London through the diverse voices of the city's citizens who, regardless of whether they love or hate it, capture the heart and soul of one of the world's greatest cities.

Westminster Abbey

by Richard Jenkyns, Mary Beard (Editor)

In a highly original pocket book, classicist and cultural historian Richard Jenkyns looks afresh at the celebrated church complex -- national cathedral, coronation church, royal mausoleum, burial place of poets, resting place of the great and of the Unknown Warrior, former home of parliament, place of Princess Diana's funeral.

Whisky, Kilts, and the Loch Ness Monster

by William W. Starr

Beginning and ending in Edinburgh and making stops at Glasgow, Culloden, Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and more, William Starr follows hilariously in the footsteps of Boswell and Johnson across Scotland.

Stone Voices, The Search for Scotland

by Neal Ascherson

Ascherson writes with verve and insight on the centuries-old impulse toward nationhood in Scotland in this absorbing portrait.

Exploring English Castles, Evocative, Romantic and Mysterious True Tales of the Kings and Queens of the British Isles

by Edd Morris

A picturesque, coffee-table tour through the grandest castles in England, including Bodiam, Framlingham and Kenilworth. Morris' color photos are accompanied by legends and tales about each structure.

Lunch: In the hotel dining room, for those arriving by lunchtime, we will have a light lunch with coffee, tea and water. Other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Orientation, 5:00 p.m.: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This program is staffed with both a Group Leader, who will accompany us throughout the program and deal primarily with logistics, and a Study Leader who will lecture, conduct field trips, and serve as an information resource on program-related topics. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: In the hotel dining room, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure to unpack, relax, and prepare for the program ahead.

DAY

3

The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, The London Eye

London

B,D

Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach and boat; driving about 9 miles, approximately 1.5 hours; boat ride about 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour. Paved & cobbled courtyards, grass lawns, uneven stone and wooden floors; most upper floors and basements at Tower of London accessed only by stairs with handrails, including narrow spiral staircases; step-free access to Jewel House. Entrance & exit ramps at Westminster Abbey; 5 steps to the Cloisters, which can be avoided by using Cloister Entrance outside Abbey.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: We'll travel by motorcoach to the Tower of London, the City’s ancient defensive center. Built at the behest of William the Conqueror in 1097, the White Tower still stands guard over the Thames. It is here that monarchs, importunate princes, and lesser mortals were imprisoned and beheaded. Now the tower is best known as the repository of the world famous Crown Jewels, including the Koh-I-Noor and Cullinan Diamonds – two of the world’s most famous diamonds and worn in the crown of Queen Victoria. The Crown Jewels were remade for Charles II after the originals were melted down in the Civil War. They provide a spectacular insight into the power of the Royal Family throughout history.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Afternoon: We will travel by boat along the Thames to Westminster, the center of British political power. Here we will see the exterior of the Houses of Parliament. We’ll then continue on to an expert-led field trip inside Westminster Abbey before a ride on the London Eye, the Ferris wheel built to celebrate the new millennium which affords spectacular views over the city. We’ll return to the hotel by motorcoach after our field trips.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions should you wish to further explore London.

DAY

4

The British Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Guildhall

London

B,D

Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 13 miles, approximately 2 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets and courtyards, some cobblestones; step-free access to all areas at British Museum, Guildhall and St Paul’s Cathedral.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will travel by motorcoach to the British Museum to explore world cultures, from prehistory to the present day. Our Study Leader will offer a brief on-site introduction to the museum, followed by time to explore the wealth of exhibits and galleries on our own. We will then regroup for the British Galleries, Stonehenge, and the Sutton Hoo collections, led by our Study Leader.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Our field trip continues by motorcoach this afternoon to the Guildhall and St Paul’s Cathedral. The Guildhall was the administrative center of London for over 800 years. In 1988, the remains of London’s Roman amphitheater were discovered by archaeologists excavating ahead of the building of the Guildhall Art Gallery. Since 2002, these remains have been on show in a dedicated exhibition space beneath the gallery, which we’ll explore during our field trip. We will then explore St Paul’s Cathedral. Christopher Wren’s famous cathedral was built to replace the earlier medieval building which was destroyed in the Great Fire of 1666. We will then board the motorcoach and ride to our dinner venue.

Dinner: At a traditional London pub, we’ll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: We’ll enjoy a panoramic motorcoach journey through London at night with expert commentary from our Study Leader.

DAY

5

Oxford, Christ Church, The Ashmolean Museum

London

B,L,D

Radisson Blu Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 110 miles, approximately 3.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones; step-free access to all public areas at Ashmolean Museum, portable folding stools available in the galleries.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Today’s full-day field trip takes us by motorcoach to Oxford, the City of Dreaming Spires. We’ll begin at Henry VIII’s Christ Church, where a local expert will lead us through the buildings and grounds of the college. Founded in 1546 and one of the largest of the Oxford’s 38 colleges, Henry’s Lord Chancellor Thomas Wolsey planned the impressive Great Quadrangle, the Tudor Kitchen, and the Great Hall. Christ Church is the cathedral seat of Oxford and occupies a 150-acre site in the center of the city. This includes the Meadow, a tranquil area of pasture bounded by the Rivers Isis and Cherwell. After exploring Christ Church, we’ll take an educational walk around the city center with our Study Leader.

Lunch: At a local pub, we’ll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We’ll continue on foot to the Ashmolean Museum, which upon its opening in 1683 was the world’s first university museum. It is named after Elias Ashmole, a 17th-century antiquarian who bequeathed his cabinet of curiosities to the university. The museum’s collection grew around this bequest, bolstered in subsequent years by donations from other noted collectors including the archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans. After an introduction by our Study Leader, we’ll have some time for independent exploration of the museum’s vast collection, which in addition to the wealth of archaeological material also includes works by world-renowned artists such as Michelangelo, da Vinci, Picasso, Turner and Titian. We will then return by motorcoach to the hotel in London.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

6

Transfer to the Cotswolds: Stonehenge & Bath

Mickleton

B,L,D

Three Ways House Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach and bus; driving about 200 miles, approximately 5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets and paths, some cobblestones, grassy areas, ancient flagstone floors with some uneven and potentially slippery areas; comfortable walking shoes with good grip are recommended.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll bid farewell to London and depart by motorcoach for the picturesque Cotswold village of Mickleton, visiting the iconic Stonehenge and the Roman spa city of Bath on the way. Stonehenge has a world-class visitor center, housing quality permanent exhibitions. We’ll explore these exhibitions with our Study Leader, who will also lead us on a walk around the stones themselves, taking an English Heritage shuttle bus from the visitor center to begin the walk.

Lunch: A packed lunch of sandwiches, fruit, and a drink or similar will be provided to make the most of this busy transfer day.

Afternoon: We'll continue on to Bath, where we will visit the well-preserved Roman baths and pump room. Around Britain’s only hot spring, the Romans built a magnificent temple and building complex that still flows with natural hot water and was regarded as the beating heart of Bath for centuries. In Roman times, Bath was known as Aquae Sulis, Sulis being a native deity syncretically identified with the Roman goddess Minerva. The hot springs here were dedicated to this goddess before the Roman occupation, and Roman authorities encouraged this worship. The baths complex that grew around the springs has provided a wealth of insight into Romano-British life and language, in the form of a collection of inscribed curse tablets that were cast into the sacred spring by people seeking divine justice for everyday thefts and slights. Following the visit, our Study Leader will lead a walk through Bath’s historic center before we journey onwards to the village of Mickleton. On arrival, we'll check in at the hotel with time to relax and unpack before dinner.

Dinner: In the hotel dining room, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

7

Cotswolds Villages & Countryside

Mickleton

B,D

Three Ways House Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones, grassy areas.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: At the hotel, our Study Leader will deliver two lectures, the first on the Cotswolds and the second on Shakespeare and Stratford. We'll then set out on a field trip by motorcoach to the countryside and villages of the Cotswolds, starting with Broadway before moving on to Stow.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Our field trip continues to the lovely market town of Chipping Campden, which benefited greatly from the wool trade in the Middle Ages and was a center for the flourishing Arts and Crafts Movement in the early 20th century. After an introduction by our Study Leader, we’ll have some time to explore the town independently. We will then return to the hotel.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: We'll enjoy a visit to the heart of many British towns and villages – the local pub!

DAY

8

Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Hidcote

Mickleton

B,D

Three Ways House Hotel

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 20 miles, approximately 1 hour total throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles, periods of standing; paved streets with some cobblestones, gravel and paved paths, grass lawns.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll take a field trip by motorcoach to Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-Upon-Avon. We'll immerse ourselves in the history of this ancient market town and the famous playwright’s life here on a fascinating educational walk led by our Study Leader. After the walk, we’ll have some time for independent exploration in the town.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Our field trip continues to Hidcote Gardens, a garden created in the Arts and Crafts style by Major Lawrence Johnston. It is arranged as a series of outdoor rooms, each with a different character and separated by walls and hedges of many different species. We will then return to the hotel.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

9

Transfer to Chester, Ironbridge, Blists Hill

Chester

B,D

Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 135 miles, approximately 3.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets with some steep areas sloping areas. Extent of walking and other activities during time for independent exploration according to personal choice.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll transfer by motorcoach to Chester, stopping on the way in the town of Ironbridge, one of the most important centers of the Industrial Revolution. Our Study Leader will lead us on an educational walk through Ironbridge, after which we’ll have some time there for independent exploration. We will also pay a visit to Blists Hill living museum, allowing us to travel back in time to the Victorian era.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like at Blists Hill.

Afternoon: Our transfer to Chester continues. After checking in at the hotel, we will have a welcome to Chester and a lecture by our Study Leader introducing us to the county of Cheshire, Wales, and Snowdonia.

Dinner: At the hotel, we'll have a 3-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

10

Snowdonia National Park, Conwy Castle

Chester

B,L,D

Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 165 miles, approximately 4.5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, gravel, cobblestone and flagstone paths, steps without handrails to some areas at Conwy Castle.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll board the motorcoach for a full-day field trip through Snowdonia National Park. En route, our Study Leader will deliver a lecture describing the National Parks of Wales as we absorb the beautiful scenery. We'll continue on to the impressive medieval Conwy Castle. The castle’s royal apartments remain unchanged since medieval times, and its towers offer spectacular views across the mouth of the River Conwy.

Lunch: At Anna’s Tea Room in Conwy, we'll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We'll visit the Welsh Slate Museum in Llanberis to learn about one of the important industries in Welsh history. Those of us who are keen to stretch our legs may join our Study Leader on a short walk from the museum to the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle. We will then return to the hotel.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

11

Walking Field Trip of Chester, Free Time

Chester

B,L,D

Hallmark Hotel The Queen, Chester

Activity note: Walking about 2 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll set out from the hotel on a walking field trip through Chester led by a local expert. The remains of Roman and medieval buildings, including an amphitheatre and a castle, are visible throughout the historic walled city. We’ll finish our field trip with an exploration of Chester Cathedral, which was constructed between 1093 and the early 16th century, making it an excellent illustration of all major periods of medieval English church architecture.

Lunch: At Chester Cathedral, we’ll have a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Free time. This block of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

12

Transfer to York, Bronte’s Parsonage Museum

York

B,L,D

DoubleTree by Hilton York

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles, approximately 4 hours total driving throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones; upper floor of Parsonage accessible only by stairs.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will transfer by motorcoach to the delightful city of York. En route, we will pay a visit to the village of Haworth, home of the Brontë Sisters. We'll enjoy a lecture on the motorcoach about this famous literary family, preparing us for this afternoon’s field trip.

Lunch: We will enjoy 2-course a plated meal at the Old White Lion in Haworth – a 300-year-old coaching inn, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We’ll walk the short distance to The Parsonage, the Brontë Sisters’ lifelong home. After an introductory talk by a local expert, we’ll have some time to explore the historic house independently. We’ll then continue our transfer, with a lecture on York, Yorkshire, and the North by our Study Leader during the journey. We’ll check in to the hotel with some time to relax before dinner.

Dinner: At the hotel, we'll have a 3-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

13

The Cathedral City of York, Free Time

York

B,L,D

DoubleTree by Hilton York

Activity note: Walking about 2 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, some cobblestones. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: We'll set out on an expert-led walk around the historic city of York, exploring the medieval city walls and atmospheric narrow streets including the Shambles.

Lunch: We'll enjoy a traditional English lunch of fish and chips in York, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Free time in York to explore this magnificent and ancient city, packed with history and culture. We may choose to visit York Minster Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in Europe.

Morning: We will set out on a field trip by motorcoach to Castle Howard, built in 1699 and set on over 1,000 acres of parkland, lawns, woodland gardens, lakes, fountains, and magnificent rose gardens.

Lunch: At Castle Howard, we will enjoy a 2-course plated meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We will travel onwards to the small village of Rievaulx, where we will enjoy a field trip to the ruins of the 13th-century Rievaulx Abbey. This Cistercian foundation was one of England’s grandest religious sites until its destruction in 1538, as part of King Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. We will then return to the hotel.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

15

Transfer to Scotland, Scottish History, Hadrian’s Wall

Edinburgh

B,L,D

Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 205 miles, approximately 5 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, periods of standing; gravel paths, grass lawns with some uneven areas, steps to some areas at Chesters fort.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll check out and board the motorcoach to begin our transfer to Edinburgh. We'll stop for a field trip to Chesters Roman Fort, considered the best preserved of the cavalry forts along Hadrian's Wall. The fort guarded a bridge across the River North Tyne, the remains of which can still be seen on the bank opposite the fort’s bathhouse. The museum at Chesters houses a great many stone altars from the Hadrian’s Wall area, providing a vivid insight into the complex religious lives of the soldiers from across the empire stationed on this frontier.

Lunch: We will enjoy a 2-course plated meal at the George Hotel close to Chesters, with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: Our transfer will continue, with a lecture on the motorcoach on the turbulent history of the Borders area. Fighting between Scotland and England was common throughout medieval times, and the settlements here often fell afoul of raids by "Border Reivers." On arrival in Edinburgh, we'll check in at the hotel and hear a second lecture from our Study Leader on other aspects of Scotland’s history.

Dinner: At the hotel we'll have a three-course plated and served meal with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

16

New & Old Towns, Free Time

Edinburgh

B,D

Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 5 miles, approximately 1 hour. Walking approximately 1.5 miles, periods of standing; paved streets, cobbled areas, hilly, steep terrain. Some steep cobbled areas at Edinburgh Castle; steps with handrails to vaults and One o’Clock Gun; Royal Apartments, David’s Tower, and prisons accessible only by steps. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers a range of hot and cold items such as eggs, breakfast meats, hash browns, mushrooms, tomatoes, cereals, cheese, cold cuts, yogurts, pastries, and toast, as well as milk, juices, coffee, tea, water.

Morning: We'll enjoy a panoramic motorcoach exploration of Edinburgh's New Town, and a walking field trip through the medieval Old Town. Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, and hidden courtyards, all amazingly well preserved and steeped in the city’s history. At its center is the Royal Mile, a remarkable street of Reformation-era tenement buildings, leading from the sea of Edinburgh Castle down to the grandiose Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: Free time. You may wish to visit Edinburgh Castle or Holyroodhouse. Entrance to the Castle and Holyroodhouse will be at your own expense.

Dinner: Hotel plated meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

17

Perthshire, Scone Palace

Edinburgh

B,L,D

Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - Royal Terrace

Activity note: Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 100 miles, approximately 3 hours total throughout the day. Walking about 2.5 miles, periods of standing; paved and gravel paths and courtyards, step-free access to public areas at Scone Palace available using alternative routes.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We'll depart by motorcoach for a full day field trip to Perthshire. We’ll begin at storied Huntingtower Castle, the seat of earls of the Ruthven and Murray families between the 15th and 18th centuries. In 1565, Mary Queen of Scots stayed in the castle during her honeymoon after marrying Lord Darnley, her second husband. As we explore the castle with our Study Leader, we’ll learn more of the plots and conspiracies that led to the castle’s seizure by the crown on two occasions. After visiting Huntingtower, we’ll continue by motorcoach to Scone Palace, where we’ll have lunch before the afternoon’s field trip.

Lunch: At Scone Palace, we’ll have a light lunch of soup and sandwiches with coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Afternoon: We’ll explore Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings, with our Study Leader. From Kenneth McAlpin, traditionally known as the first King of Scots, through Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II – all were crowned here. We’ll return to the hotel by motorcoach after our field trips.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Meals

45 Meals

17 Breakfasts

11 Lunches

17 Dinners

The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Vegetarian, Low Salt, Gluten Free

Lodging

Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.

The hotel was once the London residence of the Vanderbilt family. Many original features have been carefully restored to their former glory including stained glass windows, wood panelled rooms and its magnificent artistic ceiling.

The Hallmark Queen Hotel is well-connected and perfectly placed in Chester city centre. Five minutes from the Cathedral, you'll have the opportunity to escape the modern pace in our secluded Italian terrace gardens!

Modern hotel located just outside York's historic city walls, close to the medieval Monk Bar gate. York Minster and The Shambles are within walking distance. Facilities include a restaurant and bar, lounge, and 24-hour fitness centre.

This 4-star hotel is on a quiet tree-lined street, 550 yards from Edinburgh Waverley Rail Station and Princes Street. The en suite rooms have a flat-screen satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and music. Some rooms look out towards the Firth of Forth, and many overlook the hotel's own beautiful gardens.

I loved the trip as did my step-daughter who substituted for my husband at the last minute. Thank you for making that transition smooth.
Harvey Pascoe is impeccable in every way. He was fantastic at solving so many large and small logistical issues. This included arranging for airport pickup of my step-daughter when her airline delivered her a day late, finding us an economical laundry (hotel prices were outrageous), and making sure I had electrical hoop up for my CPAP. And to say nothing of his matching shirts and pocket handkerchief. He was clearly the best dressed among us!! And his sweet and generous heart. He is a winner.
Nickolas Keyworth and Nigel Howells were exquisitely knowledgeable and presented information in an entertaining way. I know that it is rare to have two such directors at one time on a trip, but it resulted in a fantastic breadth of knowledge and contacts used to inform our understanding of the countries we visited. Nickolas could pronounce the unpronounceable Welsh, knew the architecture and geology of the areas, informed us of the canal system and showed us how the locks worked, was a student of history that can tell the tale in an interesting and memorable way. I am sure we will all remember the War of the Roses! Nigel introduced us to Oxford, and explained this institution which is foreign to Americans in how it works. And since he works there, was able to show us what no other guide would have been able to show us. He explained many, many things along the way, as we were transiting from place to place. He also introduced us to some very special musical events and backstage opportunities.
I travel not just to see famous "stuff" but to have unique local experiences and to get to know the people of the country. The downside of tours is that you are traveling in an American bubble. Nigel, Nickolas and Harvey were all forthcoming in sharing their views and understanding of the English culture. And I loved playing skittels.

John

Class of 2012

Albany, NY

This reviewer did not give a star rating.7 months ago

The Quintessential Britain was an excellent tour. It was particularly outstanding due to the high quality group leader Roslyn Bradley and the scholarly study leaders Kevin Flude and Chris Green. Because the three of them enjoyed being with each other added to our fun.
Ros was gracious to all in the group with a light humor and a caring attitude for each person. She made sure we all got together in evenings which made it easy for us to get to know our fellow travelers. By the end of the tour we all felt we were friends with each other and with our tour leaders.
Kevin and Chris both have a remarkable amount of knowledge about each site we visited, the full history of England and and of each locale. During the bus rides lectures or talks they each were brilliant. It was similar to being in a graduate school course. They provided us pure intellectual enjoyment.
We have a few comments for what we believe would improve the tour. We would have liked to have another day in both London and Edinburgh. We do not know how to suggest an extra day in London, but we feel an additional day in Edinburgh is necessary in that we only had one day there. We would recommend eliminating the full day visit to Scone Palace.
Also, we were disappointed we had so little time in the Ashmolean Museum. It seemed we were rushed out of the museum only to stand around for a long time.
Once again, we have the highest praise for Ros, Kevin and Chris. Absolutely A+.
Jack Perry and Nancy Croce

Shelley

Class of 2006

Palos Verdes Estates, CA

(5)7 months ago

This program presents beautiful historic examples of the UK from its beginnings to the present day.

Lisa

Class of 2019

Longmont, CO

(5)7 months ago

This is a unique and inspiring program and filled with so many opportunities to learn about Britain from the prospective of those that live and work there. I recommend this program for anyone traveling to Europe for the first time. Every detail is taken care of by Road Scholar and it make the trip highly enjoyable.

Mary

Class of 2008

Lemon Cove, CA

(5)7 months ago

This was a fabulous program that incorporated a variety of activities over and above what most tours include. Information was presented in a very interesting way, and our guides couldn't have been better informed or more solicitous.

Chris

Class of 2009

Algoma, WI

(5)8 months ago

still waiting for Mr Moses' reply to our difficulties on our return from Prague

Judith

Class of 2012

Albuquerque, NM

(5)9 months ago

Three months after the trip, I find myself captivated by this amazing island, its extraordinary beauty and the cultures of England, Scotland and Wales. John Haywood and Kevin Flude were wonderful group leaders. John is a scholar steeped in particular, in the deep history of the British Isles and their relation to the Vikings, and Kevin is an erudite Londoner with a particular interest in the Kings and Queens. Highly recommend this trip.

An intense, busy trip that gives a big cross section view of the people and history of Great Britain. If you are planning your only trip to Great Britain, this is the one you want.

Lloyd

Class of 2019

Villa Park, IL

(5)10 months ago

Road Scholar is the best.

Danny

Class of 2016

Overland Park, KS

(5)a year ago

If you want to see the high points of the geography of the United Kingdom and learn its history with humor and insight, I would recommend this tour for you. I am even more interested now than when I started this tour and I was already excited about it.

Debbie

Class of 2017

Hilliard, OH

This reviewer did not give a star rating.a year ago

It's been 5 months since I returned from Quintessential Britain.
Even so, memories of wonderful experiences, amazing sites, informative lectures, and conversations with new friends continue to pop into my mind and leave me wanting more.
This trip is a wonderful opportunity to see and experience so many different parts of the UK - ancient places, modern cities and pastoral countrysides, breathtaking scenery, and on and on.
19 days is a long time, but worth the effort.
I'm ready to do it again - just have to pick one the 20 possibilities on my ever-growing Wish List.
I love Road Scholar trips and am becoming a more comfortable solo traveler each time.

Nancy

Class of 2012

Monroe, OH

(5)a year ago

If you'd like a journey through the History of Great Britain, this is the program for you. Roman ruins, Norman castles, Georgian and Victorian architecture and much more covered in this program. What a way to see England and Scotland. Highly recommend this program.

Jane

Class of 2018

Fremont, CA

(5)a year ago

The program freed me from many of the logistical details of travel, such as standing in line for entry tickets and deciphering train schedules, so that I could spend more time learning about the things I came to see.

Thomas

Class of 2018

Annapolis, MD

(5)a year ago

This program was very educational, well planned, executed, great value for the money, and a lot of fun. I learned a lot about our neighbors across the pond.

Jim

Class of 2018

Strasburg, VA

(5)a year ago

This trip provided me with a much more complete history of England, Wales, and Scotland. In many cases, we got to see the actual palaces, castles, abbeys, and cathedrals that highlighted the 2000 years of Great Britain's history.

Solveig

Class of 2018

Northfield, MN

(5)a year ago

This is a great program for anyone wanting an overview of Great Britain, from London through several areas of England to Wales and Scotland. It's especially great on British history.

Kathy

Class of 2018

Fresno, CA

(5)a year ago

A wonderfully well-organized and comprehensive tour for anyone interested in the UK. The itinerary offers something for everyone in visits to museums, gardens, tea rooms, pubs, castles, and Roman ruins. We had a fabulous time!!

Linda

Class of 2018

Volcano, HI

(5)a year ago

I would encourage anyone interested in the history and natural beauty of Great Britain to consider this excellent program, Quintessential Britain.

Joan

Class of 2018

Eugene, OR

(5)a year ago

This was such a wonderfully life-changing experience! We loved it all. I wish we could have had more time on the trip in general, and more time in particular to explore on our own.

Georgina

Class of 2016

Sunnyvale, CA

(5)a year ago

As my family's genealogist, I was anxious to learn more about where my ancestors were from and get a historical overview of Great Britain. That was accomplished by this great trip and I look forward to scheduling another trip with Road Scholar to other places my ancestors lived.

Johanna

Class of 2017

Sea Cliff, NY

(5)a year ago

Quintessential Britain was a trip that I would highly recommend. The history, the majesty of the locations and their ramifications on ancient and modern history were mesmerizing.

Dorothy

Class of 2015

Anacortes, WA

This reviewer did not give a star rating.a year ago

I had a terrific time on this trip, seeing so many wonderful things up and down the island of Britain. I surely intend to return someday and see some of the things not covered on this tour. With one exception, our local guides were terrific, and even the one I/several of us didn't care for was quite knowledgeable. Kevin Flude, our guide for our London through Stratford-upon-Avon days was top of the line, a fount of knowledge who enhanced every place we visited, and our Group Leader, Stuart Findlay, was outstanding. He kept us on track and on schedule, and if a slight opportunity to deviate which would enhance our experience a little came along, he made it work out. I couldn't ask for a better trip leader. And our two bus drivers -- OMG, those guys could put those huge buses through tight places that I would be reluctant to drive my car through. They were nothing short of amazing!! This trip was everything I expected and more. I give it 5 stars.

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